Ultimate Guide to the TAG Heuer Grand Carrera

The launch of the Grand Carrera range in 2007 was a crucial one for TAG Heuer. Not only was it the first new series introduced since the S/el way back in 1987, but the new range had the tough task of pushing into a more premium segment of the market and to an older set of buyers, many of whom may have never owned a TAG Heuer before.

The importance of the series meant that it took four years to develop, with lead designer Christoph Behling telling Calibre 11 about the countless prototypes and variations that were considered before everyone was happy that they had the right look. We also know that finding the right name also took some time, with “Vanquish” being a contender until late in the development.

Four years on, I was keen to take a closer look at the GC series. I’d spent a couple of weeks with both of the Calibre 36 models last year, but this was the first time that I had test driven the other three models- from the basic watch through to the elaborate Rose Gold titanium model. And as often seems to be the case, the model that I liked the most was the one that I thought that I’d like the least when the watches first arrived.

TAG Heuer Grand Carrera Design theme

The design theme of the Grand Carrera is given away by its name- a watch that takes the simplicity and sportiness of the Carrera and “premium-ises” it. Each of the models features several key design touches:

Hand applied logo

Applied hour markers

Double sapphire case back

Rotating System disc

Extensive Côtes de Genève finishing

Double-crown

None of these features on their own are especially remarkable, but when combined do give that feeling of quality. A more premium watch than a Carrera, albeit one that is less sports-orientated.

Each of the models is available with either a stainless steel bracelet or a crocodile leather strap, with the Chronograph models also available on a great looking rubber strap.

Supporting the premium look is a premium approach to movements: The GC is the only series in the TAG Heuer range not to be offered as a quartz version. Not only are all models automatic, but all are Chronometers, meaning that their automatic movements have been COSC certified.

The Rotating System Disc

Perhaps the design signature of the series is the Rotating System, (“RS“) disc used across the range. The discs replace the traditional sub-dials and are decorated elaborately with semi-circular, polished frames.

So why bother with the RS disc? It does give the Grand Carrera series a unique look, which in some cases is more legible than the reading the elapsed units from a dial (although it’s less accurate than a traditional dial as the units are in larger increments, as you can see above).

In reality the real benefit of the RS disc is that it allows designers greater flexibility on the shape and size of sub-dials- you certainly don’t need a full circle, or even a half-circle to accurately read the time. The sub-dial windows could be half the size that they are and they would still be just as legible.

But there is a downside to the RS disc system- and it’s one of perception rather than any lack of accuracy.

Some buyers are surprised that the disc does not rotate as smoothly as they expected, and wonder if something is wrong. The answer is that nothing is wrong, but what you see is the limitations of a mechanical movement amplified by the use of a disc rather than a thin hand.

If you look closely at the seconds hand on your automatic watch you’ll notice that it too doesn’t sweep around the dial smoothly. The limiting factor here is the speed at which the movement vibrates. Traditionally, a movement that beats more than 18,000 times per hour is considered to be “High-Beat”. The Calibre 6, 8 and 17 movements used in the models you see here all beat at 28,000 beats per hour, or 4 hz, while the Calibre 36 models beat at 36,000 beats per hour, or 5 hz. The more beats per hour, the smoother the hand or disc will rotate, but there will always be a degree of “jerkiness”.

Grand Carrera Calibre 6 RS

The starting point for the range is the Calibre 6 RS watch. The Calibre 6 is a simple two-hand watch, with the RS disc showing elapsed seconds at 6 o’clock. The lack of the usual central sweeping second hand simplifies the dial, giving the watch an elegant look. Adding to this feeling is the moderate case size- the 40mm case is the smallest in the GC range.

The Calibre 6 RS dial features a thin inner bezel with minute markers, an outer-ring of circular textures and then a flat inner circle. The outer bezel is flat and quite plain- a look similar to that one the 300 SLR from 2010.

The Calibre 6 movement inside the watch is a COSC version of the ETA 2895/2, which itself is a derivative of the ETA 2892. In fact, while every model in the range uses a different movement, all except the Calibre 36 are derivatives of the ETA 2892.

I really like the combination of the black dial and black crocodile strap. Generally I think TAG Heuer over-use the crocodile leather straps. They give more of a dress-watch feel that often doesn’t fit with a sports-orientated watch, but in the case of the Grand Carrera I think it fits perfectly.

The red indicator on the sub-dial frame provides a nice contrast to the black and silver- a nice, subtle touch.

Grand Carrera Calibre 8 RS Grande Date GMT

The Calibre 8 RS takes the basic design and functionality and adds:

Grande Date function

GMT function

Larger case (42.5mm)

This time the RS disc window at 6 o’clock shows the second time zone, and so a central second-hand is added.

The movement in this model is the Calibre 8 GMT movement, which is a COSC-version of the ETA 2892-A2 but with complications added by Soprod, with its TT651 module adding the Grande Date and GMT functions.

To accommodate these additional functions, the dial of the Calibre 8 is less pure than the Calibre 6, with the Grand Carrera script moving to the 9 o’clock position and the TAG Heuer logo moving to the 3 o’clock position. The Calibre 8 also has a more detailed inner-bezel to allow more accurate reading of elapsed seconds.

As someone who rarely uses the date function on a watch, I’m not really a fan of Grande Date function, as it gives too much space on the dial to something that I don’t use. I do however like the idea of having the second time zone read from the sub-dial, as its simpler than adding another hand.

Like all GC models, the case back has a two-piece sapphire window- each in the same shape as the sub-dials on the watch.

Grand Carrera Calibre 17 RS Rose Gold Titanium Chronograph

Finally, we have the Chronograph version of the series- the Calibre 17 RS. The Chronograph looks immediately different to the other models with its two sub-dials in the traditional bi-compax (3 and 9 o’clock) format. Again, this model uses a bespoke case, being 43.0mm- a fraction larger than the Calibre 8 watch.

The version you see here is the Rose Gold titanium model (CAV518), which uses a Grand 2 titanium case with Rose Gold highlights, the most obvious of which is the fixed tachymetre bezel, which is a little thinner than the bezel used on the non-Chronograph models. The Chronograph pushers are the screw-down variety, a feature that the Rolex Daytona made popular, but one that I don’t see as being all that practical.

The Calibre 17 movement is the ETA 2894-2, which is a Chronograph version of the ETA 2892 movement. The double sapphire case back has a smoked finish to match the stealth look PVD case, although its hard to be all that stealthy with all that bling Rose Gold on the watch.

Grand Carrera Calibre 17 RS2 Titanium

As well as the Rose Gold Calibre 17 Grand Carrera, there is this model- the titanium Calibre 17 RS2. This model is available with either the strap you see above, or with a plain black rubber strap, which I prefer. Note that the bezel on the Calibre 17 RS2 is unique to this model, having serrated edges.

Grand Carrera Calibre 17 RS150

To mark TAG Heuer’s 150th anniversary in 2010, TH released two special edition versions of the Calibre 17 RS2, called the RS150. 150 versions of each were made, with the Yellow model for Europe and the blue model for the UK.

Grand Carrera Calibre 36 RS

Sitting at the top of the tree is the TAG Heuer Calibre 36 GC that was reviewed in detail by Calibre 11 last year. Again you can see the design flexibility offered by the RS disc, as the dial of the Calibre 36 has a totally different look to the other models, even though its organised in the traditional tri-compax (3, 6 and 9 o’clock) arrangement. The Calibre 36 uses bespoke pushers and has a unique caliper system to read 1/10th accuracy.

In Summary

Of the three models that I wore for a week, my favourite was the simple Carrera 6RS. The size was perfect for me and its a very smart, elegant, well-built watch. I found the layout of the larger Calibre 8 GMT model to be too unbalanced. I don’t kow if it was the dial colour or the larger case size, but the outer bezel also looked too broad on this model- I think it would benefit from a slimmer bezel as used on the Carrera 1887, or even the one from the Calibre 17RS.

The Rose Gold GC Ti is a magnificent watch, but too bling for me. The Rose Gold is a truly beautiful colour that contrasts perfectly with the black titanium- its a statement watch that some will love.

The fact that I thought I’d find the Grand Carrera 6RS to be too dull, but ended up really liking it shows the value of actually trying on a watch before you commit. Yes, its great being able to buy watches on the internet, but in my view you won’t know whether you really love a watch until you actually see it on your wrist.

What’s next?

A refresh for the range can’t be too far away and I’ve also heard whispers that the GC will be the that the next watch that will use the Calibre 1887. Given that production of the Calibre 1887 movement is still ramping up, the Grand Carrera 1887 may be a year or more away. Until then, there are more than enough dial, case and movement variations of the series to keep everyone happy.

***

Scottyboy

Great review, thanks DC. Is there any chance you could enhance it with a review of the GC RS2 in black Ti? Full disclosure in that yes, I do own one but it is another quite unique variant of the GC range.

The red and back colour combination, both on the face and in the strap are not replicated anywhere other than the Calibre 36 but I prefer the face of the RS2 to that of the Calibre 36, which I found too busy and distracting from the business of reading the time. The RS2 Ti2 bezel is also different, being a tach but edged with “teeth” that lend the watch a real feeling of sportiness, reminiscent of a gear wheel. Overall it looks more of a tool watch than the dressier GC RS chronographs. The screw in pusher collars are maybe not all that practical but they do allow you to have slightly different looks to the watch. With them screwed out the watch looks more like a stop watch.

The jumpiness of the discs did really annoy me for a while. I even asked TH to examine the watch to no avail. I’ve learnt to ignore it. As for the accuracy of the disc with fewer markers, some of the Carrerra’s only have one every 15 secs! I guess accurate real time seconds isn’t a priority for most folk.

I would dearly like to see a GC 1887. At this price bracket (+$7000) a custom / in house movement should be offered if not expected.

Henry W

I love the Calibre 36 Grand Carrera, however it's a real shame its too big for my wrist. I tried it on in store and I wasn't quite sure what I'd wear it out with.

rajkaran singh

Simply Awesum!

Domestic Squirrel

The Cal 8RS in white dial is not a good look for it. Black dials' much more visually pleasing.

wilfreb

I'm not a fan of chronographs really, i prefer 3hands watches, and mostly divers, thats why i sold my Daytona to get a DeepSea, and sold my Aquaracer cal S to get an Aquaracer 500M (my favorite watch) but i totally love the GC 17 RS for its originality and looks, also the 43mm is an excellent choice for a modern watch, not too big, not too small.

When i held the 17RS the other day i was stunned by its quality, superb fit and finish all around, the dial is a beauty, i really like that Tag is using antiReflective crystal in almost all of their watches, it makes the quality and details of the dial more apreciable.

Congrats Calibre11 for another superb article.

Wisconsin Proud

Another great review, David.

Last year I had a chance to try on the solid rose gold GC17 with brown dial and brown gator strap as well as the twotone rose/silvertone. At about $20k USD it wasn't cheap but it was one of those watches that really felt like money.

The weight of the solid gold case and contrasting rich color was a sight to behold. The gold tang buckle finished it off nicely. I hated to hand it back to the regional rep.

I think TAG has done well to provide many good color variations for the GC17 – from total sport watch to complete elegance.

The watch is well finished but at $7k and up it bumps up against some heavy hitters.

Wisconsin Proud

I think thats part of why Ive stayed away from these: the framing of the subdial is very large compared to the actual opening. The thick brushed framing attracts the eye but distracts from the overall dial work. I'd like to see one of these with thin steel subdial rings to class it up some.

DC

Thanks for your comments Gents,

– While the 6RS was my favourite of the three I borrowed this time, I’d still take the Calibre 36 if I had the choice- stainless steel case; rubber strap: perfect…but yes, as Henry says, its on the large side

– Scottyboy, the black/ red 17RS is basically the same as the Rose Gold one I reviewed, but with different colours/ materials. I see that they have done a LE Blue and Yellow 17RS2 (Grand Carrera RS150). I know what you mean about the dial of the Calibre 36. I love it today, but am not sure how well it will date…see here: http://www.calibre11.com/interview-christoph-behling/

– Wilfreb, I know what you mean about the quality- its like everything has been tweaked up by 10%, so that while no one thing gives the impression of higher quality, the sum of the improvements does.

– Dan, I now exactly the model you’re talking about- its a beast of a watch..really solid.

Will be interesting to see where they take the look of the Grand Carrera whenever the time comes for a revised model. However, I reckon that the RS disc and the Frames are the design signatures of the Grand Carrera and are here to stay.

David

hash

hey!!! this might be a little unrelated, i am absolutely in love with calibre 36 grand carrera but does it come in a whit or an off-white dial???

DC

Hash- Calibre 36 only comes with a black dial

dc

Zee

My man got me the mens' (I have a thing for mens' watch)Tag Heuer Carreara automatic with red lining. I love it to bits.

DC

Thanks Zee- I like large men's watches on ladies. I also like the idea of buying a men's watch for my wife and finding that its too big for her….Oh, well, guess that I'll have to wear it…

Enjoy

dc

vijay

I just bought a grand Carrera Calibre 8. It was an impulsive buy as I liked it the moment I saw it. The sales girl told me the dial at 6 was a power reserve indicator. Was rushing to catch a flight did not realise until later it was a GMT. I am wondering how do i read/use the second time zone by looking at that dial. Thanks

DC

Hi Vijay- whoops! Well, GMT is more useful than Power Reserve anyway!

Take a look at this link here: .

The GMT time is changed by pulling out the crown to the "3" position

dc

Nasser

Dear DC (author),

realy its very nice model and color.

i want to know the price of this watch please.

BR

Nasser

DC

Sorry Nasser, I don't know. I don't keep track of prices.

Cheers

CmV Seattle

I just purchased the GC Calibre 17, black face stainless band. I've never aspired to have Tag as it didn't seem in the same league as my other watches. But my wife purchased the black Carrera chrono for my birthday. It was a great looking watch, but it was a little busy for me. Plus, I see the Valjoux 7750 in so many watches, I wanted something different. Ended up getting a great deal on the GC, so went for that instead. I love the watch! Its so beautiful on my wrist. It was a nice heft, without being too much. Plus the dials are just unique enough to make it stand out against other chronos. Very happy with it. I have a feeling my IWC will be spending a lot more time in the winder.

Jürgen

I just bought a Calibre 36 model & it really looks great on my wrist, I'm a Rolex submariner wearer but i think the Calibre 36 is taking me to another level..!

Vic

Hi Guys,

Just purchased a GC 36 and loving it. I'm on a business trip and forgot to wind it and it has stopped on me. I've just strated it up but forgot how to change the time and date. Could someone throw us a bone here?

Thanks in advance.

DC

Hi Vic,

Just wearing the watch while walking around should be enough to charge it- but you can always wind it manually was well (don't "shake" the watch like a Martini as you see some people doing)

Simply pull out the crown to change time and date- you'll feel two distinct "positions"

David

Henry

Nice website. Love the reviews. Never really was into watches until recently. First watch I ever purchased was a Tag Heuer Grand Date Chronograph. For my birthday recently,my wife got me the Grand Carrera Calibre 17RS2 to match the interior of my car. I love the watch. I wear it all the time. I have to agree with you, I'd prefer having a rubber strap.

One comment about the anti-reflective coating. Even though the crystal does not scratch, it seems as though the coating gets "smudged". Ive got an oily looking "smudge" on the crystal that wipes away so it doesn't look as obvious but it comes back. Not sure if this is something that can be fixed. Any feedback on the coating used as to its durability and if the crystal's coating can be redone to remove the smudge?

Luke

Hi DC,

Totally agree with you on the GC Calibre 6RS. I walked into the store today set on purchasing a Link Calibre 16 only to find the GC Calibre 6 far more sleek, stylish and elegant. Extremely happy with my purchase and I cannot stop looking at my wrist!

Thanks for affirming my thoughts,

Luke

Iqbal

Dear David,

Regarding the CAV518B, I noticed on the Net that the engravings on the back of the case on some models are just plain black (same color with the case) while some are white painted. I wonder which one is the original? Went to a Tag AD nearby and they said that the white painted ones are definitely fake. Can you please confirm on this?

Daniel

Hi Guys

How many weeks are required to assemble a Tag Heuer carrera caliber 1887 from start to finish? does anyone knows?

Hi, I have a Grand Carrera 17 with a black face, gold rotating disc surrounds and a silver bezel. the left rotating disc is 1-7 & the right one is 1-12, there is no model number on the rear and cannot find another one like it. is this a geniune TG or a fake??
all help and advice welcome
many thanks.

calibre11

Doesn’t sound right, but impossible to tell without a photo- try uploading one here, or visit our Forum at forums.calibre11.com

dc

Natanael Lud

Hi! I have a GC Calibre 8 RS GMT, but I just can’t understand how to set up the second time zone in the rotating system. If someone could help, it would be great! Thanks

Hi Dear Friends,
Recently I bought a Tag heuer grand carrera calibre 17 RS2 model from an online store. I later came to realise that the Seconds needle is not working where as the needles intended for minutes and hours are working intact. The Seconds needle is in a stand still position. How to resolve this issue. Please help…

Hi. Do you mean the central red hand? If so, that is the chronograph hand and will only work when you press the chrono button. Elapsed seconds from a time point of view are indicated by the rotating disc system, not the central hand

Chaitanya Mohta

i just brought carrera calibre 17 rs2 and its min second dis remain still and how i suppose to correct min dis time.

Muhammad Umair Bhatti

Hi Everyone,

I have a question. Can anyone tell me that pushing the reset button (the third, lowest) on Calibre 17 only resets the hour’s section or both hour’s and minutes’ section (of the chronograph) as well. The hour’s section is still running with the current time’s hour but the minute’s section sets to 0 by pressing the reset button.

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